The Easiest Transportation Options For Top European Airports

Personally, I have always found getting to and from airports (not using taxis) to be one of the more stressful parts of traveling. The major European airports are huge and sometimes finding transport upon arrival can be challenging. If you have ever felt the same, this post will help reduce this stressor.

It is a terrible experience to arrive in a foreign city, especially late at night and exhausted, unable to find your ride, and no one is willing to help you (thanks for that experience, Paris)! Believe me when I tell you that we have been stranded by more than one shuttle service too.

So, when it comes to traveling between some major European Airports and the city center, what is the best option? Based on our experiences so far, this is what we have found:

Glasgow, Scotland – Glasgow Airport Bus

Make your way to the Buchannan Bus Station and head for the violet colored airport bus. This is the best way to get to Glasgow’s International Airport. You can buy tickets on their app or when you arrive. Although they claim it is only a 15 minute ride to/from the airport, keep in mind that is once you are out of the city center. Due to traffic, it took us nearly an hour to get to the airport. Remember this for planning purposes.

Cardiff, Wales – T9 Bus

This airport seemed to be a bit more challenging for us to find easy transport information online. It really is much easier than the airport website makes it sound. When departing the arrivals terminal, a short walk will take you to the bus stop and train station link, which are well marked. We chose the bus as they run more frequently and are a little less expensive. And, one was waiting when we walked up. Just 5 pounds each offers transport directly to Cardiff Central Station. This ride takes about 1 hour due to slow traffic, but is the perfect time to catch up on things.

Heathrow, UK – Heathrow Express Train

While not the cheapest, the Heathrow Express Train is the fastest and easiest option for transport to the heart of London. Tickets are far less expensive when bought far in advance online. Trains run frequently too. This route only takes 15 minutes, getting you on your way much sooner than the underground or a cab.

It is important to note that there is also train service between Heathrow’s terminals. This is done in conjunction with TFL for free and on a separate run schedule. When you connect on these trains, your Heathrow Express ticket will work to get you through the gates. Be sure to research the difference in these trains and their services.

Brussels, Belgium – Airport Train

While the airport isn’t too far outside of town, the train is a much better option than a taxi. From the city center, head to the central train station. Here, you can buy a ticket with direct airport service for about $15.00 each. You can also buy them online in advance. Trains leave frequently and arrive directly at the departures terminal, making this a super easy and quick option. The ride is super quick and the trains are clean with plenty of spots for your luggage.

Venice, Italy – ATVO Bus

While the allure of a vaporetto may sound like the way to go, there is a much better option. After arriving at the Venice Airport, buy tickets for the ATVO bus and follow the signs. A short walk takes you to the bus station where you will validate your ticket and be on your way in no time. Passengers are dropped of at the main bus station, just a hop, skip, and a jump away from Venice’s winding canals. Tickets are cheap too – about 6 euros per person at the time of this writing. And, the buses have free WiFi! Round trip tickets are a great option for your return trip.

Rome, Italy – Leonardo Express Train

This train departs often and will get you to and from the city center non-stop. You can buy tickets in advance online, but be wary of the ticket time window when purchasing. Flight delays may cause issues if you arrive more than a few hours after your scheduled ticket times. As another option, there are ticket stations in Rome airport – directly before the train’s platform. This option can have a long queue, but still moves quickly. The Leonardo Express is the easiest and quickest option and is more cost effective than a taxi or ride share. This train provides service directly to and from Termini station.

These are some of the easiest transportation options we have found getting to and from various European airports to the city centers. We will always use these options should we ever return to any of these cities. They are much more efficient and cost effective than taxis!

Like this post? PIN IT for later!

We’d love to hear from you! Share your thoughts or questions on this post in the comments below.

Let’s get social! This post is shared in supportive Facebook Groups.

We would love it if you would share it too!

Thanks for visiting By Land and Sea!